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Abstract:

An apparatus for storing and dispensing a test strip includes a container
configured to store a stack of test strips. The container maintains
appropriate environmental conditions, such as humidity, for storing the
test strips. An engaging member is disposed in the container and is
adapted to contact one test strip of the stack of test strips. An
actuator actuates the engaging member to dispense the one test strip from
the container. Since one test strip is dispensed at a time, the remaining
test strips are not handled by the user. Accordingly, the unused test
strips remain free of contaminants such as naturally occurring oils on
the user's hand.

Claims:

1. An apparatus for storing and dispensing test strips, comprising:a
container configured to store a stack of test strips;a lid connected to
the container by a hinge; anda linkage assembly operatively connected to
the lid, the linkage assembly adapted to contact one test strip of the
stack of test strips;wherein when the lid is opened, a test strip is
dispensed.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the linkage assembly
comprises a lifting member, said lifting member comprising a lower
contacting member for contacting an edge of the one test strip of the
stack of test strips.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the lifting member
comprises a guide member that travels in a guide rail of the container to
guide movement of the lifting member.

4. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the linkage assembly
comprises:a first arm member connected to the lid;a second arm member
connected to the first arm member by a living hinge; anda third arm
member connected to the second arm member by a living hinge, the third
arm member being the lifting member and contacting the one test strip so
that the test strip is dispensed when the lid is opened.

5. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein said guide rail is disposed
on a side wall of the container.

6. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the linkage assembly
comprises:a slider arm connected to the lid, the slider arm having a slot
that engages a boss on the container;a first linkage member connected to
the slider arm; anda second linkage member connected to the first linkage
member, the second linkage member being the lifting member and contacting
the one test strip so that the test strip is dispensed when the lid is
opened.

7. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein when the lid is closed, the
linkage assembly is moved to a resting position in which the lower
contacting member contacts the edge of a next-dispensed test strip.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a biasing
element for urging the stack of test strips into a position such that the
linkage assembly contacts one test strip of the stack of test strips.

9. An apparatus for storing and dispensing test strips, comprising:means
for storing a stack of test strips;means for contacting and edge of one
test strip of the stack of test strips; anda lid connected to the
container by a hinge for actuating the contacting means to dispense the
contacted test stripwherein the contacting means comprises a linkage
assembly operatively connected to the lid.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the linkage assembly
comprises a lifting member, said lifting member comprising a lower
contacting member for contacting the edge of the one test strip of the
stack of test strips.

11. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the lifting member
comprises a guide member that travels in a guide rail of the container to
guide movement of the lifting member.

12. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the linkage assembly
comprises:a first arm member connected to the lid;a second arm member
connected to the first arm member by a living hinge; anda third arm
member connected to the second arm member by a living hinge, the third
arm member being the lifting member and contacting the one test strip so
that the test strip is dispensed when the lid is opened.

13. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein said guide rail is
disposed on a side wall of the container.

14. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the linkage assembly
comprises:a slider arm connected to the lid, the slider arm having a slot
that engages a boss on the container;a first linkage member connected to
the slider arm; anda second linkage member connected to the first linkage
member, the second linkage member being the lifting member and contacting
the one test strip so that the test strip is dispensed when the lid is
opened.

15. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein when the lid is closed,
the linkage assembly is moved to a resting position in which the lower
contacting member contacts the edge of a next-dispensed test strip.

16. A method of storing and dispensing test strips, comprising:arranging a
plurality of test strips to form a stack of test strips;storing the
plurality of test strips in a storage container;urging the stack of test
strips toward a dispensing position;engaging the stack of test strips
with a linkage assembly;actuating the linkage assembly to dispense the
engaged test strip by opening a lid of the storage container, which is
operatively engaged with the linkage assembly; andurging the remaining
test strips toward the dispensing position so that another test strip is
placed into a dispensing position.

17. The method of storing and dispensing test strips according to claim
16, wherein the engaging member contacts an edge of one test strip of the
stack of test strips.

18. The method of storing and dispensing test strips according to claim
16, further comprising closing the lid to place the linkage assembly into
a resting position, in which a member of the linkage assembly contacts
the edge of a next-dispensed test strip.

19. The method of storing and dispensing test strips according to claim
16, wherein the actuating operation comprises guiding a guide member of
the linkage assembly in a guide track of the container to guide the
movement of the linkage assembly.

20. The method of storing and dispensing test strips according to claim
16, wherein the linkage assembly comprises a slider arm having a slot
therein and the container comprises a guide boss engaged with the slot;
andthe actuating operation comprises guiding movement of the linkage
assembly by cooperation between the guide boss and the slider arm.

Description:

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001]This application is a division of U.S. Non-Provisional Patent
Application No. 11/430,178, filed May 9, 2006 in the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety.

[0005]Diagnostic test strips are used to measure analyte concentrations in
biological fluids. For example, diagnostic test strips are often used by
diabetic patients to monitor blood glucose levels.

[0006]To preserve their integrity, diagnostic test strips must be
maintained in appropriate environmental conditions. That is, the test
strips should be maintained at appropriate humidity levels, and should
remain free of foreign substances. Furthermore, to avoid contamination by
oils or foreign substances, test strips should not be handled prior to
use.

[0007]Thus, to preserve test strips, they are typically maintained in a
storage vial or the like. In order to use the test strip, a user must
reach into the vial, and retrieve a single test strip. However, many
users, such as diabetic patients, have impaired vision or physical
dexterity. Such users may find it difficult to retrieve a single test
strip from a storage vial. Further, users may accidentally touch multiple
test strips while reaching into the storage vial to withdraw a test
strip, and potentially contaminate the unused test strips.

[0008]Accordingly, there is a need for an apparatus for storing diagnostic
test strips in appropriate environmental conditions, and for conveniently
dispensing the test strips one at a time.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009]An object of the present invention is to address at least the above
problems and/or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages
described below. Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to
provide an apparatus for storing a plurality of test strips and for
dispensing the test strips one at a time.

[0010]According to one embodiment of the present invention, the above and
other objects are achieved by an apparatus for storing and dispensing a
test strip which comprises a container configured to store a stack of
test strips, a roller disposed in the container, the roller adapted to
contact one test strip of the stack of test strips, and an actuator for
actuating the roller to dispense the one test strip from the container.

[0011]According to another embodiment of the present invention, an
apparatus for storing and dispensing a test strip comprises a container
configured to store a stack of test strips, a lid connected to the
container by a living hinge, and a linkage assembly operatively connected
to the lid. The linkage assembly is adapted to contact one test strip of
the stack of test strips so that when the lid is opened, a test strip is
dispensed.

[0012]According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, an
apparatus for storing and dispensing test strips comprises a container
configured to store a stack of test strips, a spring disposed in the
container, the spring adapted to contact one test strip of the stack of
test strips, and an actuator for actuating the spring to dispense the one
test strip from the container.

[0013]According to still another embodiment of the present invention, an
apparatus for storing and dispensing test strips comprises means for
storing a stack of test strips, means for contacting one test strip of
the stack of test strips, and means for actuating the contacting means to
dispense the contacted test strip.

[0014]According to a still further embodiment of present invention, a
method of storing and dispensing test strips comprises the steps of
arranging a plurality of test strips to form a stack of test strips,
storing the plurality of test strips in a storage container, urging the
stack of test strips toward a dispensing position, engaging the stack of
test strips with an engaging member, actuating the engaging member to
dispense the contacted test strip, and urging the remaining test strips
toward the dispensing position so that another test strip is placed into
a dispensing position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015]The above and other objects, features, and advantages of certain
exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be more apparent from
the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings, in which:

[0016]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a storage vial for storing and
dispensing test strips, according to a first exemplary embodiment of the
present invention;

[0025]FIG. 10 is a sectional view taken along the line 10-10 in FIG. 9;

[0026]FIG. 11 is a sectional view taken along the line 11-11 in FIG. 9;

[0027]FIG. 12 is an enlarged sectional view of certain elements of the
storage vial shown in FIG. 8;

[0028]FIG. 13 is a sectional view of a storage vial for storing and
dispensing test strips according to a third exemplary embodiment of the
present invention;

[0029]FIG. 14 is another sectional view of the storage vial shown in FIG.
13;

[0030]FIG. 15 is a cut-away perspective view of a storage vial for storing
and dispensing test strips according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of
the present invention;

[0031]FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of certain elements of the storage vial
shown in FIG. 15;

[0032]FIG. 17 is a sectional view of the storage vial shown in FIG. 15,
with a partially dispensed test strip;

[0033]FIG. 18 is a cut-away perspective view of a storage vial for storing
and dispensing test strips according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of
the present invention;

[0034]FIG. 19 is a cut-away perspective view of the storage vial shown in
FIG. 18, with a partially dispensed test strip;

[0035]FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a linkage member of the storage
vial shown in FIG. 18;

[0036]FIG. 21 is a sectional view of a storage vial for storing and
dispensing test strips according to a sixth exemplary embodiment of the
present invention;

[0037]FIG. 22 is a sectional view of a storage vial for storing and
dispensing test strips according to a seventh exemplary embodiment of the
present invention;

[0038]FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a storage vial for storing and
dispensing test strips according to a eighth exemplary embodiment of the
present invention; and

[0039]FIG. 24 is perspective view of a cartridge of the storage vial shown
in FIG. 23.

[0040]Throughout the drawings, the same reference numerals will be
understood to refer to the same elements, features and structures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0041]The matters defined in the description such as detailed construction
and elements are provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of
the embodiments of the invention. Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in
the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the
embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope
and spirit of the invention. Also, descriptions of well-known functions
and constructions are omitted for clarity and conciseness.

First Exemplary Embodiment

[0042]Referring to FIGS. 1-7, a storage vial 100 for storing and
dispensing test strips according to a first exemplary embodiment of the
present invention includes a storage container 102 configured to store a
stack of test strips 104, a strip roller 106 rotatably disposed in the
container, and a thumbwheel 108 rotatably disposed in the container. The
strip roller 106 contacts one test strip 142 of the stack of test strips
104. The thumbwheel 108 operates the strip roller 106 so that when the
thumbwheel 108 is rotated, the strip roller 106 rotates to dispense the
test strip 142 in contact with the strip roller 106.

[0043]The storage container 102 includes a lower body portion 110 and a
top wall 112 mounted in the lower body portion 110. The lower body
portion 110 of the storage container 102 is generally rectangular and
forms a cavity 123 which is configured to store a stack of test strips
104. A test strip supporting wall 116 extends upwardly from the bottom
wall 118 of the container. The test strip supporting wall 116 is tall
enough to provide support for the stack of test strips 104 loaded in the
storage container 102. The test strip supporting wall 116 may end short
of the strip roller 106 so that it does not interfere with the strip
roller 106. Alternatively, the test strip supporting wall may extend to
the bottom surface of the top wall 112 of the storage container 102, and
have an elongated slot to provide clearance for installation and
operation of the strip roller 106 (refer to element 331 in FIG. 14).

[0044]The storage container 102 may be formed of a desiccant entrained
polymer to regulate the specific relative humidity inside the container.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,911,937, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety, discloses one suitable desiccant entrained polymer.
Alternatively, the storage container 102 may be formed of a polymer with
an insert-molded desiccant, or a desiccant may be placed in the cavity
123.

[0045]The top wall 112 of the storage container 102 is preferably formed
separately from the remainder of the storage container 102 for easier
manufacturing and assembly. After the test strips 104 are loaded into the
storage container 102, the top wall 112 may be fixed to the storage
container 102 by ultrasonic welding, by an adhesive, by mechanical
engagement (such as a snap-fit), or by any other suitable method known to
those skilled in the art. The top wall 112 of the storage container 102
forms a dispensing slot 120 through which test strips are dispensed. The
top surface 122 of the top wall 112 may bear indicia 136 (such as an
arrow) for indicating the direction to rotate the thumbwheel 108 to
dispense a test strip. A first supporting member 124 extends from the
bottom surface 126 of the top wall 112 to rotatably support the strip
roller 106, as will be discussed in detail below. A second supporting
member 128 also extends from the bottom surface of the top wall 112. The
thumbwheel 108 is rotatably supported by the second supporting member
128, and the thumbwheel 108 extends through a second slot through the top
wall 112 of the storage container 102. A downwardly extending test strip
supporting wall may be located adjacent to the test strip dispensing slot
120 to support and guide test strips into the dispensing slot 120 while
they are being dispensed (refer to element 831 in FIG. 14).

[0046]The storage container 102 may be provided with a lid 138 to prevent
humidity and other environmental contaminants from entering the storage
container 102. The lid 138 may be a separate component, but preferably
the lid 138 is connected to the storage container 102 by a hinge 140. In
the illustrated embodiment, the lid 138 is formed integrally with the
lower body portion 110 of the storage container 102 so that it is
connected to the storage container 121 by a living hinge 140. The lid 138
preferably forms a substantially hermetic seal with the lower body
portion 110 of the storage container 102. Such seals are known to those
skilled in the art, and therefore, a detailed description of the seal
will be omitted for conciseness. Also, for convenience of explanation,
the lid is only shown in some of the drawings.

[0047]A biasing element 132, such as a compression spring or a leaf
spring, urges the stack of test strips 104 stored in the storage
container 102 into contact with the strip roller 106. A platform 134 may
be disposed between the biasing element 132 and the stack of test strips
104 to uniformly distribute the force generated by the biasing element
132 along the length of the stack of test strips 104. If the test strips
are sufficiently rigid, however, the biasing element 132 may directly
contact the test strips.

[0048]The strip roller 106 is rotatably supported by the first supporting
member 124, which extends downwardly from the top wall 112 of the storage
container 102. The strip roller 106 contacts one of the test strips 142
in the stack of test strips 104. In the illustrated embodiment, (FIG. 4),
the strip roller 106 engages the right-most test strip 142. Preferably,
the strip roller 106 engages the test strip in the upper portion of the
test strip. The outer circumferential surface 144 of the strip roller 106
should have a sufficient coefficient of friction to frictionally engage
and dispense a test strip. For example, the strip roller 106 may be
formed of rubber bonded to a metal or molded plastic roller insert. A
strip roller gear 146 is located on one side of the strip roller 106.

[0049]A thumbwheel 108 is rotatably supported by the second supporting
member 128. A plurality of gear teeth 148 are located around the outer
circumference of the thumbwheel 108, and the gear teeth 148 on the
thumbwheel 108 engage the strip roller gear 146. The gear teeth 148 also
provide friction to allow a user to more conveniently operate the
thumbwheel 108 with a thumb, a finger, or the like.

[0050]Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the storage container 102
may be used in a fully automated test strip dispenser. In this case, the
automated test strip dispenser is provided with a motor 150 with a pinion
gear 152, and the storage container 102 is disposed in the automated test
strip dispenser so that the pinion gear 152 engages the thumbwheel 108.
The automated test strip dispenser can, if desired, be combined with a
blood glucose meter that reads the test strips 104.

[0051]Furthermore, a locking member 154, such as a ratchet or pawl, may be
disposed on the storage container 102 to engage the thumbwheel 108. The
locking member 154 allows the thumbwheel 108 to rotate in one direction
(that is, a dispensing direction), but prevents the thumbwheel 108 from
rotating in the opposite direction.

[0052]The method of using the storage vial for storing and dispensing test
strips according to the first exemplary embodiment of the invention will
now be described. Initially, the strip roller 106 and the thumbwheel 108
are assembled to the first and second supporting members 124,128,
respectively, on the top wall 112 of the storage container 102. A stack
of test strips 104 is loaded into the lower body portion 110 of the
storage container 102 so that the stack of test strips 104 is disposed
between the platform 132 and the test strip supporting wall 130. The
biasing element 132 is installed in the cavity 123 between the platform
132 and the opposite wall of the storage container. The top wall 112,
with the strip roller 106 and the thumbwheel 108 installed, is then
assembled to the lower body of the storage container 102. The lid 138 is
placed on the storage container 102 to form a substantially hermetic
seal. The storage vial 100 may now be stored, and the stack of test
strips 104 will be protected from environmental hazards, such as
moisture. Typically, these steps will be performed by a manufacturer,
rather than an end user of the storage vial.

[0053]To dispense a test strip, a user opens the lid 138 to expose the
thumbwheel 108 and the strip dispensing slot 120. The user then rotates
the thumbwheel 108 in the dispensing direction by manipulating the
thumbwheel 108, with the user's fingers or the like. Upon rotation of the
thumbwheel 108, the thumbwheel 108 transmits the rotational force to the
strip roller 106 through the gear teeth 148 on the thumbwheel 108 and the
strip roller gear 146. Therefore, the strip roller 106 rotates. The strip
roller 106 contacts one test strip 142 of the stack of test strips 104,
and through frictional force generated between the strip roller 106 and
the contacted test strip 142, dispenses the contacted test strip 142
through the test strip dispensing slot 120. The thumbwheel 108 may be
rotated so that the test strip 142 is completely dispensed out of the
storage container 102, or the test strip 142 may be partially dispensed
from the storage container 102 to expose the test strip so that a user
may grasp the exposed test strip 142 to completely withdraw the test
strip and use the test strip.

[0054]Once the test strip is completely dispensed from the storage
container 102, the biasing element 132 urges the remaining test strips in
the stack of test strips 104 toward the strip roller 106 so that a new
test strip is placed into contact with the strip roller 106. Thus, to
dispense another test strip, the user rotates the thumbwheel 108 again.
After dispensing the desired number of test strips, the user may then
replace the lid on the storage container 102 to store the remaining test
strips for future use.

[0055]After all of the stored test strips stored in the storage container
102 have been dispensed, the storage vial 100 may be discarded, or may be
returned to the manufacturer for recycling. Alternatively, the storage
container 102 may be adapted to be reusable (e.g., by making the top wall
112 removable from the lower body portion 110).

Second Exemplary Embodiment

[0056]Referring to FIGS. 8-12, a storage vial 200 for storing and
dispensing test strips according to a second exemplary embodiment of the
present invention includes a storage container 202 configured to store a
stack of test strips 204, a strip roller 206 rotatably disposed in the
storage container 202, and a pushbutton 208 disposed in the container.
The strip roller 206 contacts one test strip 226 of the stack of test
strips 204. The pushbutton 208 is connected with the strip roller 206 by
a gear train 230 so that when the pushbutton 208 is pushed, the strip
roller 206 rotates to dispense the test strip 226 in contact with the
strip roller.

[0057]The storage container 202 includes a lower body portion 210 and a
top wall 212 mounted in the lower body portion 210. The lower body
portion 210 of the storage container 202 is configured substantially the
same as the lower body portion 110 of the storage container 100 of the
first exemplary embodiment of the invention. Accordingly, a detailed
description of the lower body portion 210 will not be repeated.

[0058]The top wall 212 of the storage container 202 has a test strip
dispensing slot 216 through which test strips are dispensed. A first
supporting member 218 extends from the bottom surface 220 of the top wall
212 to rotatably support the strip roller 206, as will be discussed in
detail below. A second supporting member 222 extends from the bottom
surface 220 of the top wall 212 to rotatably support an intermediate gear
232.

[0059]The pushbutton 208 has a first end 234 and a second end 236. The
first end 234 of the pushbutton 208 extends through a slot located in the
top wall 212 of the storage container 202 so that it may be manipulated
by a user. The second end 236 of the pushbutton 208 is disposed inside
the cavity 214 of the storage container 202. A rack gear 238 is formed
along the length of the pushbutton 208 near the second end 236 of the
pushbutton 208.

[0060]The pushbutton is movable between a resting position (illustrated in
FIG. 10, for example) and a dispensing position. A biasing element 240,
such as an extension spring, is disposed between the top wall 212 and the
pushbutton 208. The biasing element 240 urges the pushbutton 208 toward
the resting position.

[0061]The pushbutton 208 has at least one track 242 located on one side of
the pushbutton, and may have tracks located on both sides of the
pushbutton 208. The tracks 242 are configured to guide the movement of
the pushbutton 208 so that when the pushbutton 208 is pressed to dispense
a test strip, the rack gear 238 on the pushbutton 208 engages the
intermediate gear 232. When the pushbutton 208 is released, the tracks
242 are configured to cause the rack gear 238 to disengage from the
intermediate gear 232. Therefore, the pushbutton 208 may be restored from
the dispensing position to the resting position without rotating the
intermediate gear 238.

[0062]The intermediate gear 232 is rotatably disposed on the second
supporting member 222 which extends downwardly from the bottom surface
220 of the top wall 212 of the storage container 202. The intermediate
gear 232 is disposed between the rack gear 238 on the pushbutton 208 and
the strip roller gear 228 on the strip roller 206 to operatively connect
the gears and form a gear train 230.

[0063]The strip roller 206 is rotatably supported by the first supporting
member 218, which extends downwardly from bottom surface 220 of the top
wall 212 of the storage container 202. The strip roller 206 is generally
configured the same as the strip roller 106 of the first exemplary
embodiment of the present invention. Accordingly, a detailed description
of the strip roller 206 will not be repeated.

[0064]The method of using the storage vial 200 for storing and dispensing
test strips according to the second exemplary embodiment of the invention
will now be described. Initially, the strip roller 206, the pushbutton
208, the biasing element 240, and the intermediate gear 232 are assembled
to the top wall 212 of the storage container 202. A stack of test strips
204 is loaded into the lower body portion 210 of the storage container
202 so that the stack of test strips 204 is disposed between the platform
246 (and the biasing element 232) and the test strip supporting wall 224.
The top wall 212, with the installed components, is then assembled to the
lower body portion 210 of the storage container 202 so that the strip
roller 206 engages one test strip 226 of the stack of test strips 226.
The lid 224 may then be closed, and the stack of test strips may be
stored as long as desired.

[0065]To dispense a test strip, a user opens the lid 224, and pushes the
pushbutton 208 to move the pushbutton 208 from a resting position to a
dispensing position. Initially, the tracks 242 on the pushbutton 208
cause the rack gear 238 to engage the intermediate gear 232.
Consequently, movement of the pushbutton 208 causes the rack gear 238 to
rotate the intermediate gear 232. The rotation of the intermediate gear
232 rotates the strip roller gear 228 and causes the strip roller 206 to
dispense the test strip 226 which the strip roller 206 contacts. The
pushbutton 208 may be configured to completely dispense the test strip
226 out of the storage container 202, or the test strip 226 may be
partially dispensed from the storage container 202 to expose the test
strip so that a user may grasp the exposed test strip 226 to completely
withdraw the test strip from the storage container 202.

[0066]After the test strip 226 has been dispensed, the biasing element 244
urges the platform 246 and the stack of test strips 204 against the test
strip supporting wall 248 so that a new test strip may be dispensed.

[0067]When a user releases the pushbutton 108, the configuration of the
tracks 242 on the pushbutton cause the pushbutton 208, along with the
rack gear 238, to move away from and disengage the intermediate gear 232.
Therefore, the pushbutton 208 may be returned to the resting position
without rotating the intermediate and strip roller gears 232, 228 in a
reverse direction.

Third Exemplary Embodiment

[0068]Referring to FIGS. 13-14, a storage vial 300 for storing and
dispensing test strips according to a third exemplary embodiment of the
present invention includes a storage container 302 configured to store a
stack of test strips, a strip roller 306 rotatably disposed in the
storage container 302, and a pushbutton 308 disposed in the storage
container 302. The strip roller 306 contacts one test strip of the stack
of test strips. The pushbutton 308 is connected with the strip roller 306
by a gear train so that when the pushbutton 308 is pushed, the strip
roller 306 rotates to dispense the test strip in contact with the strip
roller 306.

[0069]The storage container 302 of the third exemplary embodiment of the
present invention is generally the same as the storage container 202 of
the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention, except for the
configuration of the intermediate gear 316 of the gear train and the
pushbutton 308.

[0070]In this embodiment of the invention, the pushbutton 308 does not
have tracks for engaging and disengaging the rack gear from the
intermediate gear 316. Instead, the pushbutton 308 has extended guide
pins (not shown) which are disposed in and guided by pushbutton guide
tracks 310 disposed on the inner surface of the outer wall of the lower
body portion 304 of the storage container 302. The guide tracks 310 are
generally parallel to the edge of the lower body portion so that the
pushbutton member moves substantially straight into and out of the
storage container 302.

[0071]The intermediate gear 316 of this embodiment of the invention is not
supported by a supporting member which extends from the top wall of the
storage container. Instead, the intermediate gear 316 has extended shaft
portions (not shown) which are disposed in and guided by a pair of
intermediate gear guide tracks 312 formed on the inner surface of the
outer wall of the lower body portion 304 of the storage container 302.
Accordingly, the intermediate gear 316 is free to move linearly along the
length of the intermediate gear guide tracks 312.

[0072]The method of using the storage vial 300 for storing and dispensing
test strips according to the third exemplary embodiment of the invention
will now be described. Initially, the storage vial 300 is loaded with a
stack of test strips and assembled in substantially the same manner
described above.

[0073]To dispense a test strip, a user pushes the pushbutton 308 to move
the pushbutton 308 from a resting position to a dispensing position.
Initially, a rack gear on the pushbutton 308 engages the intermediate
gear 316, and the intermediate gear 316 moves linearly toward the lower
end 314 of the intermediate gear guide tracks 312. Upon reaching the
lower end 314 of the intermediate gear guide tracks 312, the guide tracks
312 prevent the intermediate gear 316 from any further linear movement.
Accordingly, further movement of the pushbutton 308 causes the rack gear
on the pushbutton 308 to rotate the intermediate gear 316. The rotation
of the intermediate gear 316 rotates a strip roller gear and causes the
strip roller 306 to dispense a test strip. The pushbutton 308 may be
configured to completely dispense a test strip, or a test strip may be
partially dispensed from the storage container 302 to expose the test
strip so that a user may grasp the exposed test strip to completely
withdraw the test strip from the storage container 302.

[0074]When a user releases the pushbutton 308, a biasing element urges the
pushbutton 308 from the dispensing position back to the resting position.
During the initial movement of the pushbutton 308 toward the resting
position, the intermediate gear 316 translates along the intermediate
gear guide tracks 312 to move toward the upper end of the guide tracks.
When the intermediate gear 316 moves far enough, it disengages the strip
roller gear. Therefore, the pushbutton 308 may be returned to the resting
position without rotating the strip roller gear in a reverse direction.

Fourth Exemplary Embodiment

[0075]Referring to FIGS. 15-17, a storage vial 400 for storing and
dispensing test strips according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the
present invention includes a storage container 402 configured to store a
stack of test strips 404, a lid 406 connected to the storage container by
a hinge 408, and a linkage assembly 410 operatively connected to the lid
406. When the lid 406 is opened, the linkage assembly 410 engages one
test strip 412 of the stack of test strips 404 and dispenses the test
strip 412.

[0076]The storage container 402 has a generally rectangular lower body
portion 414 and forms a cavity 416 which is configured to store a stack
of test strips 404. The storage container 402 is formed of any suitable
material, as previously discussed.

[0077]The storage vial 400 is provided with a lid 406 to prevent humidity
and other environmental contaminants from entering the storage container.
The lid 406 is connected to the storage vial by a hinge 408. In the
illustrated embodiment, the lid 406 is formed integrally with the lower
body portion of the storage container so that it is connected by a living
hinge 408. Any type of hinge arrangement may be used, however. The lid
406 preferably forms a hermetic seal with the lower body portion 414 of
the storage container 402.

[0078]The linkage assembly 410 includes a first arm member 418 connected
to the lid 406, a second arm member 420 connected to the first arm member
418 by a living hinge 428, and a third arm member 422 connected to the
second arm member 420 by a living hinge 428. The first arm member 418 is
a generally V-shaped member. The two legs of the V-shaped member form, in
the illustrated embodiment, an obtuse angle with respect to one another.
The first arm member 418 is attached to the lid 406 by heat staking, by
ultrasonic welding, by mechanical attachment, or by any other suitable
method known to those skilled in the art.

[0079]The second arm member 420 joins the first and third arm members 418,
422 by living hinges 428 at both ends of the second arm. The use of
living hinges provide certain benefits, such as lower manufacturing
costs, but it should be understood that the arms also may be joined by
other types of hinges.

[0080]The third arm member 422 has guide members 430, such as guide pins,
which are disposed in and configured to travel in rails located in the
side wall of the lower body portion 414 of the storage container 402. The
third arm member 422 has a lower contacting member 426 which is
configured to contact the lower edge of one test strip 412 of the stack
of test strips 404. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the
third arm member 422 contacts the lower edge of the right-most test strip
412.

[0081]As illustrated, one set of first, second, and third arm members is
provided at the front side of the storage container 402. For stability, a
second set of first, second, and third arm members, which is
substantially identical to the first set of first, second, and third arm
members, may be located at the back side of the storage container 402.

[0082]The method of using the storage vial 400 for storing and dispensing
test strips according to the fourth exemplary embodiment of the invention
will now be described. Initially, the lid 406 is opened, a stack of test
strips 404 is loaded into the container between a platform 432 and the
outer wall 434 of the storage container 402, and the lid 406 is closed.
With the lid 406 closed, the linkage assembly 410 is placed into a
resting position. In the resting position, the third arm member 422 is
located at the bottom of the storage container, and the lower contacting
member 426 is located underneath the bottom edge of the right-most test
strip 412.

[0083]To dispense a test strip, a user opens the lid 406 of the storage
container 402. The opening of the lid 406 causes the first arm member 418
to rotate up and out of the storage container. The second and third arm
members 420, 422, which are connected to the first arm member 418, are
also raised. The third arm member 422 travels substantially vertically up
due to the cooperation of the guide member 430 and the guide rails and is
raised up to a dispensing position. Since the lower contacting member 426
of the third arm member 422 is located under a test strip 412, it raises
and dispenses the test strip 412. Once the third arm member 422 reaches
the dispensing position, a user may grasp the test strip and remove the
dispensed test strip 412. The first, second, and third arm members 418,
420, and 422 may be configured to completely dispense the test strip 412
out of the storage container 402, or the test strip 412 may be partially
dispensed from the storage container 402 to expose the test strip so that
a user may grasp the exposed test strip 412 to completely withdraw the
test strip from the storage container 402 and use the test strip.

[0084]After the test strip 412 has been dispensed, a user may then close
the lid 406. Closing the lid 406 causes the linkage assembly 410 to
return to its resting position. When the linkage assembly 410, and the
third arm member 422 in particular, reaches the resting position, the
biasing element 436 urges the stack of test strips 404 toward the outer
wall 434 so that a new test strip is placed over the lower contacting
member 426 of the new test strip. Consequently, the storage vial 400 is
ready to dispense another test strip.

Fifth Exemplary Embodiment

[0085]Referring to FIGS. 18-20, a storage vial 500 for storing and
dispensing test strips according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the
present invention includes a storage container 502 configured to store a
stack of test strips, a lid 504 connected to the storage container 502 by
a hinge 506, and a linkage assembly 508 operatively connected to the lid
504. When the lid 504 is opened, the linkage assembly 508 engages one
test strip 510 of the stack of test strips and dispenses the test strip.

[0086]The storage container 502 and lid 504 of this embodiment is
generally configured the same as the storage container 402 and lid 404 of
the fourth exemplary embodiment.

[0087]The linkage assembly 508 includes at least one slider arm 512, at
least one first linkage member 514, and at least one second linkage
member 516. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of slider arms 512, a
pair of first linkage members 514, and a pair of second linkage members
516 are provided to increase the stability and reliability of the linkage
assembly.

[0088]First ends 518 of the slider arms 512 are pivotably connected to the
lid 504. Second ends 520 of the slider arms 512 are pivotably connected
to the first linkage members 514. Each of the slider arms 512 has a slot
522 that engages a guide boss 536 disposed on the storage container 502.

[0089]First ends 524 of the first linkage members 514 are pivotably
connected to the second ends 520 of the slider arms 512, and second ends
526 of the first linkage members 514 are pivotably connected to the
second linkage members 516.

[0090]The second linkage members 516 have guide members 528, such as guide
pins, which are disposed in and configured to travel in guide rails
located in the side walls of the storage container 502. The first ends
530 of the second linkage members 516 are connected to the second ends
526 of the first linkage members 514. A lower contacting member 534 is
disposed between the second ends 532 of the second linkage members 516.
The lower contacting member contacts one test strip 510 so that the test
strip 510 is dispensed when the lid 504 is opened.

[0091]The method of using the storage vial 500 for storing and dispensing
test strips according to the fifth exemplary embodiment of the invention
will now be described. Initially, the lid 504 is opened, a stack of test
strips is loaded into the storage container 502, and the lid 504 is
closed. With the lid 504 closed, the linkage assembly 508 is placed into
a resting position. In the resting position, the second linkage members
516 are located at the bottom of the storage container 502, and the lower
contacting member 534 is located underneath the lower edge of the bottom
edge of the right-most test strip 510.

[0092]To dispense a test strip, a user opens the lid 504 of the storage
container 502. The opening of the lid 504 causes the slider arms 512 to
rotate up and out of the storage container 502. The slider arms 512 are
guided by cooperation of the guide bosses 536 and the slots in the slider
arms 512 along a predetermined path. The second ends 520 of the slider
arms 512 pull the first linkage members 514, which, in turn, pull the
second linkage members 516. The second linkage members 516 travel
substantially vertically up insider the storage container 502 due to the
cooperation of the guide members 528 and guide rails and is raised up to
a dispensing position. Since the lower contacting member 534 is located
under a test strip, it raises and dispenses the test strip. Once the
second linkage members 516 reach the dispensing position, a user may
grasp the test strip and remove the dispensed test strip. The slider arms
512 and the first and second linkage members 514, 516 may be configured
to completely dispense a test strip out of the storage container 502, or
the test strip may be partially dispensed from the storage container 502
to expose the test strip so that a user may grasp the exposed test strip
to completely withdraw the test strip from the storage container and use
the test strip.

[0093]After the test strip has been dispensed, a user may then close the
lid 504. Closing the lid 504 causes the linkage assembly 508 to return to
its resting position. When the linkage assembly 508, and the second
linkage members 516 in particular, reach the resting position, a biasing
element urges the stack of test strips towards the side wall of the
storage container 502 so that a new test strip is placed over the lower
contacting member. Consequently, the storage container 502 is ready to
dispense another test strip.

Sixth Exemplary Embodiment

[0094]Referring to FIG. 21, a storage vial 600 for storing and dispensing
test strips according to a sixth exemplary embodiment of the present
invention includes a storage container 602 configured to store a stack of
test strips, a spiral pusher spring 604, and a thumbwheel 606 connected
to the spiral pusher spring 604 by a gear train 628 so that rotation of
the thumbwheel 606 causes the spring to dispense one test strip of the
stack of test strips.

[0095]The storage container 602 is generally rectangular and forms a
cavity 612 which is configured to receive a cartridge 610 for storing a
stack of test strips. The storage container 602 may be formed of any
suitable material, as previously discussed.

[0096]The storage vial 600 is provided with a lid 608 to prevent humidity
and other environmental contaminants from entering the storage container
602. The lid 608 may be connected to the storage vial by any suitable
type of hinge, such as a living hinge.

[0097]A cartridge 610 is inserted into the cavity in the storage container
602. The spiral pusher spring 604 and the associated gear train 628 are
disposed in the cartridge 610. The cavity 612 in the cartridge 610 is
configured to hold a stack of test strips, and a platform, as well as a
biasing element, are located in the cavity to urge the stack of elements
toward one wall of the cartridge 610. The cartridge 610 may be removable
from the storage container 602 or permanently affixed thereto.

[0098]The spiral pusher spring 604 is wound around a cylindrical spring
drum 614. A first end 616 of the spiral pusher spring 604 is disposed in
a guide track 618 formed in the cartridge 610. A second end 620 of the
spiral pusher spring 604 is fixed to the cylindrical spring drum 614. The
first end 616 of the spiral pusher spring 604 is configured to contact
the edge of a test strip. Accordingly, when the spring drum 614 is
rotated, the first end 616 of the spiral pusher spring 604 is extended
and moves along the guide track 618 to dispense a test strip.

[0099]In the illustrated embodiment, the gear train 628 comprises a
thumbwheel driving gear 606, a first idler gear 622, a second idler gear
624, and a spring drum driving gear 626. The thumbwheel driving gear 606
is partially exposed to the outside of the storage container 602 so that
a user may manipulate the thumbwheel 606. The first and second idler
gears 622, 624 engage the thumbwheel 606, and transmit a rotational force
generated by the thumbwheel 606 to the spring drum driving gear 626. The
gear train 628 may be configured with any desired gear ratios.

[0100]The method of using the storage vial 600 for storing and dispensing
test strips according to the sixth exemplary embodiment of the invention
will now be described. Initially, a stack of test strips is loaded into
the cartridge 610, the spiral pusher spring 604 is retracted into an
initial resting position, and the cartridge is inserted into the storage
container 602. In the resting position, the spiral pusher spring 604 is
retracted so that the end of the spring is located at the bottom of the
storage container 602 and is underneath the lower edge of one edge of a
test strip.

[0101]To dispense a test strip, a user rotates the exposed thumbwheel 606
in a dispensing direction. The rotational force of the thumbwheel 606 is
transmitted to the spiral pusher spring 604 through the gear train 628.
The spiral pusher spring 604 is extended and dispenses the test strip.
The thumbwheel 606 may be rotated so that the test strip is completely
dispensed out of the storage container 602, or the test strip may be
partially dispensed from the storage container 602 to expose the test
strip so that a user may grasp the exposed test strip to completely
withdraw the test strip and use the test strip.

[0102]After the test strip has been dispensed, a user may then rotate the
thumbwheel 606 in an opposite direction to the dispensing direction to
return the spiral pusher spring 604 to its resting position.
Alternatively, the inherent spring force of the spiral pusher spring 604
may cause it to return to its resting position automatically. When the
spiral pusher spring 604 reaches the resting position, the biasing
element urges the stack of test strips towards the spiral spring so that
a new test strip is placed over the end of the pusher spring.
Consequently, the storage container 602 is ready to dispense another test
strip.

Seventh Exemplary Embodiment

[0103]Referring to FIG. 22, a storage vial 700 for storing and dispensing
test strips according to a seventh exemplary embodiment of the present
invention includes a storage container 702 configured to store a stack of
test strips, a spring 704 configured to contact one test strip of the
stack of test strips, a rack 706 connected to the spring 704, a pinion
708 engaging the rack 706, and a thumbwheel 710 engaging the pinion 708
so that rotation of the thumbwheel 710 displaces the rack 706 and causes
the spring 704 to dispense the contacted test strip.

[0104]The storage container 702 and lid of this embodiment is generally
configured the same as the storage container 702 and lid of the sixth
exemplary embodiment.

[0105]A cartridge 712 is inserted into a cavity 714 in the storage
container 702 502. The cartridge 712 has a cavity which is configured to
hold a stack of test strips, and a platform, as well as a biasing
element, are located in the cartridge 712 to urge the stack of test
strips toward one wall of the cartridge 712. The cartridge 712 may be
removable from the storage container 602 or permanently affixed thereto.

[0106]The spring 704 is disposed in a guide track 722 formed in the
cartridge 712. A first end 716 of the spring 704 is guided by the guide
track 722 and is configured to contact the edge of a test strip. A second
end 718 of the spring 704 is fixed to the rack 706.

[0107]The rack 706 is linearly movable within the storage container 702.
The rack 706 has a rack gear 720 located on one side of the rack.

[0109]The thumbwheel 710 is also rotatable disposed on the cartridge 712,
and engages the pinion gear 708. Accordingly, when the thumbwheel 710 is
rotated, the pinion gear 708 rotates, and the rack 706 translates
linearly. Thus, the first end of the attached spring 704 is moved along
the guide track 722.

[0110]The method of using the storage vial for storing and dispensing test
strips according to the seventh exemplary embodiment of the invention
will now be described. Initially, a stack of test strips is loaded into
the cartridge 712, the pusher spring 704 and rack 706 are placed into an
initial resting position, and the cartridge is inserted into the storage
container 702. In the resting position, the rack 706 and pusher spring
704 are retracted so that the end of the spring 704 is located at the
bottom of the storage container 702 and is underneath the lower edge of
one edge of a test strip.

[0111]To dispense a test strip, a user rotates the exposed thumbwheel 710
in a dispensing direction. The rotational force of the thumbwheel 710 is
transmitted to the pinion 708 gear, and the pinion gear 708 engages the
rack 706 gear to translate the rotational force of the pinion gear 708
into linear movement of the rack 706. The linear movement of the rack 706
extends the pusher spring 704, and dispenses the test strip. The
thumbwheel 710 may be rotated so that the test strip is completely
dispensed out of the storage container 702, or the test strip may be
partially dispensed from the storage container 702 to expose the test
strip so that a user may grasp the exposed test strip to completely
withdraw the test strip and use the test strip.

[0112]After the test strip has been dispensed, a user may then rotate the
thumbwheel 710 in an opposite direction to the dispensing direction to
return the pusher spring 704 to its resting position. Alternatively, the
pusher spring can return to its resting position automatically. When the
pusher spring 704 reaches the resting position, the biasing element urges
the stack of test strips towards the pusher spring 704 so that a new test
strip is placed over the end of the pusher spring 704. Consequently, the
storage container 702 is ready to dispense another test strip.

Eighth Exemplary Embodiment

[0113]Referring to FIGS. 23-24, a storage vial 800 for storing and
dispensing test strips according to an eighth exemplary embodiment of the
present invention includes a storage container 802 configured to store a
stack of test strips rack, a spring 804 configured to contact one test
strip of the stack of test strips, and a lever arm 806 that pivots about
a pivot point 808. A first end 810 of the lever arm 806 is connected to
the spring 804 to drive the spring 804 so that pivoting of the lever
causes the spring 804 to dispense the contacted test strip.

[0114]The storage container 802 and lid (not shown) of this embodiment is
generally configured the same as the storage container 602 and lid 608 of
the sixth exemplary embodiment.

[0115]A cartridge 814 is inserted into a cavity in the storage container
802. A cavity in the cartridge 814 is configured to hold a stack of test
strips, and a platform, as well as a biasing element, are located in the
cavity to urge the stack of test strips toward one wall of the cartridge.
The cartridge 814 may be removable from the storage container 802 or
permanently affixed thereto.

[0116]The spring 804 is disposed in a guide track 818 formed by the
cartridge and 814. The first end 820 of the spring 804 is guided by the
guide track 818 and is configured to contact the edge of a test strip
816. A second end 822 of the spring 804 is fixed to a first end 810 of
the lever arm 806.

[0117]The lever arm 806 is pivotably disposed about a pivot point 808 on
the cartridge. The second end 824 of the lever arm 806 extends above the
top end of the cartridge so that a user may manipulate the lever arm 806.

[0118]The method of using the storage vial 800 for storing and dispensing
test strips according to the eighth exemplary embodiment of the invention
will now be described. Initially, a stack of test strips is loaded into
the cartridge 814, the lever arm 806 and the pusher spring 804 are placed
into an initial resting position, and the cartridge is inserted into the
storage container 802. In the resting position, the lever arm 806 is
pivoted to one side of the storage container 802, and the pusher spring
804 is retracted so that the end of the spring 804 is located at the
bottom of the storage container 802 and is underneath the lower edge of
one edge of a test strip.

[0119]To dispense a test strip, a user presses the lever arm 806 to pivot
the lever arm 806. The pivoting of the lever arm 806 causes the pusher
spring 804 to extend along the guide track, and dispenses the test strip.
The lever arm 806 is pivoted far enough for a user to grasp the test
strip and remove the dispensed test strip.

[0120]After removing the test strip, a user may then pivot the lever arm
806 back to its initial resting position. Alternatively, the lever arm
may return to its resting position automatically. When the lever arm 806
reaches the resting position, the biasing element urges the stack of test
strips towards the pusher spring 804 so that a new test strip is placed
over the end of the pusher spring 804. Consequently, the storage
container 802 is ready to dispense another test strip.

[0121]While various embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the
invention, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various
changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the
scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.